7 Tips on How to Get the Most Cash for Your Used Car
Selling a used car is like going to the dentist: it's an unavoidable and unpleasant experience that no one wants to go through.
It's stressful. You have to deal with both money and strangers: two things no one enjoys.
If you're looking to sell your car, here's how to get the most money for your junk car while avoiding unnecessary stress.
1. Clean it up
Before you sell your car, make sure it's as clean as it can possibly get. When you want to get the most cash for a used car, you may not be ready to hand over extra money to get it detailed.
That's okay, just use a little elbow grease.
Wash the floor mats, wipe down all the panels and knobs, and really get into every nook and cranny. Give it a good wash to make sure the exterior sparkles, too.
2. Fix minor yet obvious repairs
Obviously, you don't want to do any transmission replacements or major engine overhauls. You're trying to get rid of the car, after all.
At the same time, however, you should try your best to fix all the obvious problems. If the brakes are squealing, replace them. Fix that crack in the windshield.
Although scratches and dents don't impact the overall integrity of the car, they could be a red line for many potential buyers. If you want to get cash for your used car, you need to make sure it's worth the price you're asking.
3. Fill the fluids and get an oil change
Once again, it can be tempting to stop maintenance routines all together once you decide to sell your car. Don't.
Get an oil change and replace the air filter. Check your coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid levels. Top off the wiper fluid and look underneath the car for any leaks. (Any potential buyer probably will, so you should, too.)
Plus, fresh oil and fluids will help the car run a lot smoother when buyers come to take it for a test drive.
4. Get your records and documents in order
Buying a car from a stranger is as stressful as selling one. As a seller, you should try to be as transparent as possible during the entire process.